How to Drain a Whirlpool Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of draining a Whirlpool dishwasher typically involves removing standing water and addressing potential blockages. It usually requires disconnecting the power and accessing the drain hose for inspection and cleaning.
Understanding Dishwasher Drainage
A dishwasher that fails to drain properly can be a frustrating inconvenience. Understanding the basic principles behind dishwasher drainage, including the common causes of drainage issues, can help you diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently. From food particles to clogged drain hoses, several culprits can prevent your Whirlpool dishwasher from doing its job.
Why Your Whirlpool Dishwasher Isn’t Draining
Several factors can cause your Whirlpool dishwasher to stop draining effectively. Identifying the root cause is essential for successful troubleshooting. Here are some common reasons:
- Clogged Drain Filter: This filter traps food particles and debris to prevent them from entering the drain pump. A clogged filter is one of the most frequent causes of drainage problems.
- Blocked Drain Hose: The drain hose connects the dishwasher to the garbage disposal or sink drain. It can become kinked, twisted, or blocked with food remnants and grease.
- Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is damaged or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to drain the water properly.
- Air Gap Issues: The air gap, if present, prevents backflow of wastewater into the dishwasher. A clogged air gap can hinder drainage.
- Clogged Garbage Disposal: If your dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining.
- Kinked Drain Hose: The drain hose should not have any bends or kinks.
The Step-by-Step Whirlpool Dishwasher Draining Process
Here’s a detailed guide to manually draining your Whirlpool dishwasher. Remember to always disconnect the power supply before beginning any repair.
- Gather Your Tools: You’ll need the following:
- Towels
- Bucket or large container
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Pliers (optional)
- Gloves (optional)
- Disconnect the Power: This is a critical safety step. Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet or turn off the breaker that supplies power to it.
- Remove Standing Water:
- Open the dishwasher door.
- Use a container to scoop out as much standing water as possible.
- Alternatively, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water.
- Locate and Inspect the Drain Filter:
- The drain filter is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
- Remove the lower spray arm.
- Twist and remove the filter cover (refer to your dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions).
- Clean the filter thoroughly under running water, removing any food particles or debris.
- Check and Clear the Drain Hose:
- Locate the drain hose connection. This may be under the sink or behind the dishwasher.
- Disconnect the hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain.
- Position the other end of the hose into a bucket.
- Check for kinks or clogs. You can use a straightened coat hanger or snake to clear any blockages.
- If connected to a garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear any potential clogs.
- Inspect the Drain Pump (Advanced):
- This step requires some technical skill. If you are not comfortable with this step, consult a qualified technician.
- Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher).
- Remove any obstructions around the pump.
- Check the pump impeller for damage.
- Reassemble and Test:
- Reinstall the drain filter and spray arm.
- Reconnect the drain hose to the garbage disposal or sink drain.
- Plug the dishwasher back in or turn on the breaker.
- Run a short rinse cycle to test the drainage.
- Monitor for leaks.
Troubleshooting Common Drainage Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher won’t drain | Clogged drain filter | Clean the drain filter thoroughly. |
| Dishwasher won’t drain | Blocked drain hose | Disconnect the drain hose and check for kinks or clogs. Use a snake or straightened coat hanger to remove obstructions. |
| Slow Drainage | Partially clogged drain hose or filter | Clean the drain filter and inspect the drain hose for partial blockages. |
| Water backing up into sink | Clogged garbage disposal (if connected) | Run the garbage disposal with plenty of water to clear any blockages. |
| Loud Noises during Drain | Foreign object in drain pump | Disconnect power and carefully inspect the drain pump for foreign objects. This requires technical expertise. |
| Leaks during drain | Improper hose connection or damaged drain hose | Check the drain hose connections and tighten if necessary. Replace the drain hose if it’s damaged. |
| Standing Water | Issue with the check valve inside the drain pump | Replace the drain pump. This requires technical expertise. |
Tips for Maintaining Proper Drainage
Preventing drainage issues is easier than fixing them. Here are some tips to keep your Whirlpool dishwasher running smoothly:
- Scrape Plates Before Loading: Remove large food particles before loading dishes into the dishwasher.
- Clean the Drain Filter Regularly: Clean the drain filter at least once a month to prevent clogs.
- Run the Garbage Disposal Regularly: If your dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, run the disposal regularly to prevent blockages.
- Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent proper cleaning and lead to more food particles ending up in the drain.
- Use Dishwasher Detergent Properly: Using the correct amount and type of detergent is crucial for effective cleaning and preventing residue buildup.
When to Call a Professional
While many drainage issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, some situations require professional assistance. Consider calling a qualified appliance repair technician if:
- You’re uncomfortable working with electrical components.
- You suspect a faulty drain pump.
- You can’t identify or resolve the drainage issue after following the troubleshooting steps.
- The dishwasher is still under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Draining a Whirlpool Dishwasher
What is the primary cause of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining?
The most common culprit is a clogged drain filter. Food particles accumulate quickly, preventing water from flowing freely. Regular cleaning of the filter is crucial for maintaining proper drainage.
How often should I clean the drain filter in my Whirlpool dishwasher?
Ideally, you should clean the drain filter at least once a month. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if you regularly load dishes with a lot of food residue. Regular maintenance prevents build-up.
Can a kinked drain hose prevent my Whirlpool dishwasher from draining?
Yes, absolutely. A kinked or twisted drain hose can significantly restrict water flow. Make sure the hose is straight and unobstructed for optimal drainage.
My dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal. Does a clogged disposal affect drainage?
Yes. If the garbage disposal is clogged, it will back up into the dishwasher’s drain line, preventing it from draining properly. Run the disposal with plenty of water to clear any blockages. Ensure the knockout plug in the garbage disposal is removed before connecting to the dishwasher.
How do I access the drain hose on my Whirlpool dishwasher?
The drain hose is typically located under the sink where the dishwasher connects to the drain pipe or garbage disposal. In some cases, you may need to pull the dishwasher slightly out from under the counter to access the connection.
Is it safe to use a chemical drain cleaner in my Whirlpool dishwasher?
Using chemical drain cleaners in a dishwasher is generally not recommended. They can damage the dishwasher’s internal components and may not effectively clear clogs. Manual cleaning is preferred.
What if I can’t find the drain filter in my Whirlpool dishwasher?
Refer to your Whirlpool dishwasher’s owner’s manual. The manual will provide specific instructions and diagrams showing the location of the drain filter and how to remove it. Each model may have a slightly different design.
What is the purpose of the air gap on my dishwasher’s drain line?
The air gap prevents wastewater from the sink or garbage disposal from flowing back into the dishwasher, ensuring that your dishes are cleaned with fresh water. A clogged air gap can also hinder drainage.
How do I know if my dishwasher’s drain pump is faulty?
Signs of a faulty drain pump include unusual noises during the drain cycle, water remaining in the dishwasher after a cycle, or no drainage at all. Pump replacement may be necessary.
My dishwasher hums but doesn’t drain. What could be the problem?
A humming sound without drainage could indicate that the drain pump motor is running but is blocked. This may be caused by a foreign object obstructing the pump impeller. Careful inspection and removal of the object are needed.
Is it possible to replace the drain pump on my Whirlpool dishwasher myself?
Replacing the drain pump is a more advanced repair that requires some technical knowledge and skills. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Safety is paramount when dealing with electrical appliances.
What can I do to prevent future drainage problems with my Whirlpool dishwasher?
Scrape plates thoroughly before loading dishes, clean the drain filter regularly, and run the garbage disposal frequently (if connected). Preventative maintenance is the key to avoiding drainage issues. Proper loading of the dishwasher is also important to avoid clogging.